The Role of Low Code in Shaping the Future of Software Development: Empowerment, Not Unemployment

In recent years, low code development has gained significant attention. However, many speculate that this trend will leave a large number of developers unemployed. The reality, however, is more nuanced and highlights the complementary nature of low code tools and traditional coding practices.

Challenges with Low Code

Low code initiatives and tools have been in existence for decades, yet they have struggled to deliver large-scale, customized, and maintainable solutions. Many of these tools specialize in automating mundane repetitive tasks like sending notifications or emails. While they simplify certain aspects of development, they often fall short when dealing with more complex requirements.

Maintaining and replacing solutions that are not tied to specific platforms is more straightforward, as non-developers can usually adapt to these tools rather than become experts in proprietary systems. However, for more complex projects, dedicated developers are still required, and these solutions often necessitate collaborative efforts that coding platforms facilitate more effectively.

Traditional Development vs. Low Code

The core issue that low code attempts to address is not the need for coding itself, but rather the tedious and repetitive aspects of development. Low code tools excel in automating these tasks and freeing developers to focus on higher-value work, such as designing and refining software architecture.

Source code remains essential for delivering complex features and robust applications. Multiple developers can work concurrently on text-based source code, facilitating collaboration and ensuring that large-scale projects remain coherent and maintainable. Closed platforms, on the other hand, make it difficult for a team to collaboratively refine and test changes to visual models or forms.

A Case Study: Rob and Mike's Collaboration

Let's examine a case study to illustrate the impact of low code on development processes. Rob, a finance executive, approached Mike, a developer, for the automation of some processes in his job. Initially, Mike proposed a custom .Net application, which was a significant project involving substantial technical complexities.

However, the project faced numerous challenges:

Rob, lacking technical background, found many aspects of the development process incomprehensible. The project delivery was delayed, and both Rob and Mike blamed each other for the delays.

To address these issues, a business analyst was added to the project, and the development work was postponed. This approach, while more structured, did not address the underlying lack of technical understanding and collaboration.

Adopting Low Code: A Win-Win Solution

Let's see how this story might evolve with the introduction of Microsoft PowerApps and a low code approach:

Instead of starting with a complex custom application, Rob and Mike considered using Microsoft PowerApps, a low code tool. Rob, empowered by PowerApps, created a prototype solution in just a few days. However, the complexity increased after receiving feedback from his department.

Mike then joined in to create a more sophisticated version. This time, the project was delivered within the intended timeline, with Rob and Mike working closely together. Rob had a higher level of IT literacy and understood the technical aspects more comprehensively, leading to a more effective collaboration.

Combining the strengths of low code tools and traditional development methods resulted in a more efficient, collaborative, and effective project. Low code not only simplified mundane tasks but also fostered the collaboration necessary for more complex solutions.

The Impact of Low Code on Employment

Failed IT projects often result in unemployment for all stakeholders, including corporates, business users, and developers. Conversely, the rise of low code culture can lead to the creation of two-person projects that create win-win situations for everyone involved.

Low code tools empower non-developers to take on more responsibilities, reducing the burden on developers and allowing them to focus on more strategic and value-generating tasks. This empowerment leads to more efficient development cycles and better project outcomes.

In conclusion, rather than causing job displacement, low code tools complement traditional development practices, enhancing collaboration and driving innovation. The future of software development lies in leveraging the strengths of both low code and traditional coding methods to create more efficient, effective, and collaborative projects.